He said the first three months of the year is traditionally the peak period for snake and spider bites, the first-aid for which depends on the species.

"If the bite is on a limb, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage,” he said. 

“For all other bites, apply direct, firm pressure to the bite site with your hands and bandage through to armpit or groin.”

Oberon Multipurpose Service manager Christine Symington said they have had four snake bite victims present at the service recently - some with no compression bandage at all.

"It's important to immobilise the patient. They should not be walking around and definitely do not drive," Ms Symington said.

"And never cut or excise the wound. Do not attempt to suck out venom and don’t apply a tourniquet.

"Call triple-0 to ensure the patient receives the best treatment as quickly as possible.

"If the public are not sure how to apply a compression bandage, paramedics and staff from Oberon Multipurpose Service will be giving demonstrations at Oberon's Lifestyle and Wellness Festival which is on March 23 at St Joseph’s School."

Mr Kanne said in 2017, NSW paramedics attended 774 incidents involving snakes and spiders, compared with 740 in 2016.

In Central West Zone 1, there were 21 incidents in 2017. Incidents so far this year include a 36-year-old male bitten by a snake above the knee at Dunedoo on January 20; and a 44-year-old female bitten by a spider on the elbow at Parkes on January 13.

Mr Kanne said for spider bites such as redbacks, white-tails and trapdoors, apply an ice pack or cold compress to relieve the pain and, if severe symptoms develop, seek medical aid.

"In the case of small children involved in a suspected redback spider bite, medical aid should be sought, irrespective of whether symptoms manifest,” he said.

“Around the home, remove piled up debris from the yard and keep lawns mowed to reduce the potential for unexpected visitors.

“Check items of clothing that have been left outside before wearing them. 

"Paramedics attend many cases where people have put on boots and gloves and been bitten by spiders and even snakes which were hidden inside. Also, if you lift something such as a rock or log, lift it with it facing away from you.”

Mr Kanne said paramedics attend many cases where it did not always transpire that patients had been bitten by a poisonous snake or spider, however it is better to call triple-0 for assistance to be on the safe side.